Name: Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 9 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, sliced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp corn syrup or honey; 5 large eggs; 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

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Overnight crème brûlée French toast is one of my favorite breakfast bakes when I want something indulgent, cozy, and effortless in the morning. I love how the custardy bread soaks overnight and bakes into a rich, creamy center with a caramelized bottom that reminds me of classic crème brûlée. It feels special enough for holidays or brunch, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because I can do all the prep the night before and wake up to an oven-ready breakfast. I enjoy how the brown sugar and butter melt into a caramel-like sauce while baking. The texture is soft and creamy inside with a lightly crisp top, which makes every bite feel decadent and comforting. Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

day-old bread, sliced
unsalted butter
brown sugar
corn syrup or honey
eggs
half-and-half or milk
heavy cream
vanilla extract
salt
ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

I start by melting the butter and stirring it together with brown sugar and corn syrup or honey. I pour this mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly. I arrange the bread slices on top in a single layer. In a bowl, I whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, cream, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon if I’m using it. I pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently so everything gets soaked. I cover the dish tightly and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, I bake it uncovered until puffed, golden, and set through the center.

Servings and Timing

I usually make this recipe to serve 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time: about 15 minutes
Chilling time: overnight, at least 8 hours
Baking time: about 40 to 45 minutes
Total time: approximately 9 hours

Variations

I sometimes add orange zest or a splash of bourbon to the custard for extra depth. When I want a fruitier version, I layer sliced bananas or berries between the bread slices. I also enjoy serving it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or fresh fruit on top.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. I cover it loosely to prevent over-browning. Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

FAQs

What kind of bread works best?

I like using brioche or challah because they soak up the custard beautifully without falling apart.

Can I make this without corn syrup?

I do sometimes, and I replace it with honey or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor.

Does it need to sit overnight?

I find overnight soaking gives the best texture, but I can shorten it to at least 4 hours if needed.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

I look for a puffed center that’s set and no longer liquid when gently shaken.

Can I freeze overnight crème brûlée French toast?

I freeze baked portions wrapped tightly for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

Conclusion

Overnight crème brûlée French toast is a rich, comforting breakfast I love making when I want something impressive without morning stress. The custardy texture and caramelized sweetness make it feel indulgent and memorable, and it’s a recipe I always turn to for relaxed, special mornings.

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

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Author: lina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 9 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and indulgent baked French toast casserole that soaks overnight for ease and flavor. Inspired by crème brûlée, it features a custardy interior with a caramelized bottom and is perfect for holidays or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, sliced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp corn syrup or honey
5 large eggs
1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup (or honey) until smooth. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Arrange the sliced bread in a single layer over the sugar mixture.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon if using.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, pressing gently to help the bread absorb the mixture.
Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the dish and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh fruit.